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Alchemy #1
Deadly Alchemy
How do you choose who lives and who dies?
Alchemist Amelia Rimos has just discovered the cure for the Undead. Being naïve and vulnerable, she does not realize the Undead have their targets set on her.
Happening upon a tall, dark, exotic man named Michel Gauthier, he saves her from becoming a victim, thrusting her into a game of cat and mouse. Amelia realizes being an Alchemist is not in her best interest when she befriends him. Is Michel as sincere as he seems or does he have an ulterior motive?
When her life cannot be more complicated, John Hawthorne interjects himself into Amelia's life and shifts it completely upside down. He informs Amelia she has the key to their survival. Soon, she will realize the Undead are not the only monsters in the world…
Amelia will find herself in a stalemate: She will be forced to choose between destroying her evidence and saving the man she’s grown to love or destroying over half the population of the world, including the love of her life with it.
Alchemist Amelia Rimos has just discovered the cure for the Undead. Being naïve and vulnerable, she does not realize the Undead have their targets set on her.
Happening upon a tall, dark, exotic man named Michel Gauthier, he saves her from becoming a victim, thrusting her into a game of cat and mouse. Amelia realizes being an Alchemist is not in her best interest when she befriends him. Is Michel as sincere as he seems or does he have an ulterior motive?
When her life cannot be more complicated, John Hawthorne interjects himself into Amelia's life and shifts it completely upside down. He informs Amelia she has the key to their survival. Soon, she will realize the Undead are not the only monsters in the world…
Amelia will find herself in a stalemate: She will be forced to choose between destroying her evidence and saving the man she’s grown to love or destroying over half the population of the world, including the love of her life with it.
378 pages, ebook
First published January 20, 2015
101 people are currently reading
330 people want to read
About the author
Julie Morgan
75 books733 followersHailing from Burleson, Texas and growing up in the country with big tractors and bon fire parties, I would day dream about far off lands, hoping to one day get inside their worlds.
Always having a love of books and paranormal stories, I finally took the leap to begin writing with encouragement from my husband. Having worked in IT my entire career and finding my way to Central Florida, I spend free time writing new stories, putting together puzzles with my daughter or reading her children's stories.
We are involved in Autism research and Autism awareness. To find out more how you can help, check out http://www.autismspeaks.org/
Always having a love of books and paranormal stories, I finally took the leap to begin writing with encouragement from my husband. Having worked in IT my entire career and finding my way to Central Florida, I spend free time writing new stories, putting together puzzles with my daughter or reading her children's stories.
We are involved in Autism research and Autism awareness. To find out more how you can help, check out http://www.autismspeaks.org/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 22, 2022
Deadly Alchemy by Julie Morgan
Paranormal steampunk historical romance.
Amelia is an alchemist and has invented a way to stop or cure vampirism. But that puts her life into a game of cat and mouse where she’s the dragged into the darker side of life and death.
Michael saves Amelia from an attack but seems to have an agenda. John also seems to have Amelia’s best interests in mind, but does he?
Intense and pieces of violence that had me horrified with the vampires. Too more gore and violence for me. More, I didn’t like the attitude of superiority by the vampires. To be expected?
I read through the next part with only 1 eye on the page to get to the romance that arrives in the last quarter of the book. That brought relief and appreciation of the journey the heroine had to go through. Quite a powerful ride.
Paranormal steampunk historical romance.
Amelia is an alchemist and has invented a way to stop or cure vampirism. But that puts her life into a game of cat and mouse where she’s the dragged into the darker side of life and death.
Michael saves Amelia from an attack but seems to have an agenda. John also seems to have Amelia’s best interests in mind, but does he?
Intense and pieces of violence that had me horrified with the vampires. Too more gore and violence for me. More, I didn’t like the attitude of superiority by the vampires. To be expected?
I read through the next part with only 1 eye on the page to get to the romance that arrives in the last quarter of the book. That brought relief and appreciation of the journey the heroine had to go through. Quite a powerful ride.
January 30, 2015
What can I say about Deadly Alchemy? Wonderful ... awesome ... amazing ... fantabulous. Fantabulous? Yes, I just made up a word. DA is so great that I made up a word!
Deadly Alchemy is set during the Victorian Era. Beautiful scenery, beautiful clothing, beautiful setting. Julie Morgan does on spectacular job making you feel like you are right there with them. She draws you in and you feel like you actually know the characters.
We start off meeting a beautiful, intelligent chemist named Ameila. She has created an award winning potion to rid of the Undead. Upon leaving work one evening, she walks out and discovers her carriage driver deceased. Thank goodness there was a sexy man there to escort her home and see that she was safe. Meet Michel. The gorgeous, romantic, savior -- Michel. Amelia instantly feels an attraction to him. He is sweet, yet dangerous. Can she stay away? Is he as good as he seems?
Fast forward just a bit and we meet John. Hmmmm .... John. He is another form of a paranormal being. He and his pack are there to protect Amelia. Of course she does not believe that anyone can be after her. Why would they come after her? She stays to herself and works endless hours after all. It takes ages to get her on board with John, although once she finally commits .. she commits! They all dress up in their bad ass steam punk gear and prepare for a war against the Undead.
Who are they fighting? Will Amelia decide to stay on John's side? How do you choose between who lives and who dies?
Julie ... I love you woman. I need more. Like SERIOUSLY need more John and Amelia. What do you say to a sequel? :) This book is full of emotions. I laughed (out loud) and cried. Be prepared for an epic journey set back in time. This is one of my favorite reads of the year thus far. Make sure to pick this one up ... it's AMAZING!
Happy Reading!!
Deadly Alchemy is set during the Victorian Era. Beautiful scenery, beautiful clothing, beautiful setting. Julie Morgan does on spectacular job making you feel like you are right there with them. She draws you in and you feel like you actually know the characters.
We start off meeting a beautiful, intelligent chemist named Ameila. She has created an award winning potion to rid of the Undead. Upon leaving work one evening, she walks out and discovers her carriage driver deceased. Thank goodness there was a sexy man there to escort her home and see that she was safe. Meet Michel. The gorgeous, romantic, savior -- Michel. Amelia instantly feels an attraction to him. He is sweet, yet dangerous. Can she stay away? Is he as good as he seems?
Fast forward just a bit and we meet John. Hmmmm .... John. He is another form of a paranormal being. He and his pack are there to protect Amelia. Of course she does not believe that anyone can be after her. Why would they come after her? She stays to herself and works endless hours after all. It takes ages to get her on board with John, although once she finally commits .. she commits! They all dress up in their bad ass steam punk gear and prepare for a war against the Undead.
Who are they fighting? Will Amelia decide to stay on John's side? How do you choose between who lives and who dies?
Julie ... I love you woman. I need more. Like SERIOUSLY need more John and Amelia. What do you say to a sequel? :) This book is full of emotions. I laughed (out loud) and cried. Be prepared for an epic journey set back in time. This is one of my favorite reads of the year thus far. Make sure to pick this one up ... it's AMAZING!
Happy Reading!!
January 28, 2015
Julie has done it again, sucking us into a world that is dangerous, intriguing and sexy as hell.
Amelia has found the cure for Vampirism, making her not so popular for the vampires that don't want to be cured. She meet Michael who rescues her and she finds herself attracted to him. But Michael is not who he seems, he is walking evil. SO you have a love hate with him. But don't worry Amelia is not left with out some on on her side. You will not love him at first in fact want to kick his butt. John truly becomes the person you would want for Amelia and in the end you will be rooting for them.
The characters in this book will pull you into the story and make you feel what they feel ~ Fear, Love Desperation, Hate and Passion. In the end you figure out who you would choose to live or die, you chose with your heart.
Amelia has found the cure for Vampirism, making her not so popular for the vampires that don't want to be cured. She meet Michael who rescues her and she finds herself attracted to him. But Michael is not who he seems, he is walking evil. SO you have a love hate with him. But don't worry Amelia is not left with out some on on her side. You will not love him at first in fact want to kick his butt. John truly becomes the person you would want for Amelia and in the end you will be rooting for them.
The characters in this book will pull you into the story and make you feel what they feel ~ Fear, Love Desperation, Hate and Passion. In the end you figure out who you would choose to live or die, you chose with your heart.
June 30, 2022
First, let me say the updated cover for this one is phenomenal and puts me in the mindset of the story much better. The narration started out so-so for me but settled as the story went on - it hit the period (or what I perceive to be the period) well but made the heroine sound older at first.
The story is setting the stage so a lot happens. The vampires are dark. The alchemy angle is stirring things up and the supernatural wold is coming out of the woodwork. I am intrigued and book 2 lies in wait!
The story is setting the stage so a lot happens. The vampires are dark. The alchemy angle is stirring things up and the supernatural wold is coming out of the woodwork. I am intrigued and book 2 lies in wait!
January 3, 2015
I loved this book! Amelia is an alchemist who has created a cure for vampirism. What she thinks will win her a Nobel prize may very well be the death of her. She meets a vampire named Michel, who saves her from a vampire attack. He is quite charming and she is intrigued. They spend time together and all seems well, and then her world gets turned upside down. This story had me at the edge of my seat and it's an absolute must read!
February 6, 2015
What can I say….Julie Morgan has this habit of writing amazing books. However, I think she’s outdone herself with this one!!! It’s FAN-tastic!!! It’s the exact recipe of danger, heat, romance, vampires, wolves, family and all wrapped in the historic era. It’s really a recipe for your brain, heart and that little special place that holds passion and romance. Just perfect!!
Let’s start with Alchemist, Amelia. She’s a very different character. Even though it’s set in an historic fashion, she is well above her years. She’s all woman, being soft and somewhat innocent (as the times would call for) but she’s also got a big spunk about her. She’s not going to go down without a fight and she’s extremely passionate about what she believes in. When things happen, she’s able to dig deep and fight for what’s right. But…there’s a bit of naïve about her too.
Michel is amazing. He’s freaking amazing looking and has charm and heat that causes all sorts of passion in Amelia. She’s drawn to him and thinks of him constantly. He has one HUGE secret though…..and boy is it a big one! Will he be her match or her death?
Then there’s John. Oh my…..John!!!! He is simply amazing. But they way they meet isn’t exactly normal. With that and the “facts” that he tells her about her family, what she has been working on as an Alchemist and disturbing information about Michel….can she trust him? Is he telling the truth?
All of Amelia’s life work might just go up in smoke. If it’s the right thing, can she be ok with that? What about how she feels about Michel? She’s going to find out the truth about him. Will John be there for her? Will he see her through to the end?
All I can say about this book is that you need to 1CLICK right now!!!!! It’s so amazing! It was a quick read for me but that might be because I couldn’t put it down. I promise you won’t be sorry!!! Julie Morgan…..you are crazy talented!!!!
Highly Recommend!!!!
Let’s start with Alchemist, Amelia. She’s a very different character. Even though it’s set in an historic fashion, she is well above her years. She’s all woman, being soft and somewhat innocent (as the times would call for) but she’s also got a big spunk about her. She’s not going to go down without a fight and she’s extremely passionate about what she believes in. When things happen, she’s able to dig deep and fight for what’s right. But…there’s a bit of naïve about her too.
Michel is amazing. He’s freaking amazing looking and has charm and heat that causes all sorts of passion in Amelia. She’s drawn to him and thinks of him constantly. He has one HUGE secret though…..and boy is it a big one! Will he be her match or her death?
Then there’s John. Oh my…..John!!!! He is simply amazing. But they way they meet isn’t exactly normal. With that and the “facts” that he tells her about her family, what she has been working on as an Alchemist and disturbing information about Michel….can she trust him? Is he telling the truth?
All of Amelia’s life work might just go up in smoke. If it’s the right thing, can she be ok with that? What about how she feels about Michel? She’s going to find out the truth about him. Will John be there for her? Will he see her through to the end?
All I can say about this book is that you need to 1CLICK right now!!!!! It’s so amazing! It was a quick read for me but that might be because I couldn’t put it down. I promise you won’t be sorry!!! Julie Morgan…..you are crazy talented!!!!
Highly Recommend!!!!
February 11, 2015
Deadly Alchemy is a real page turner, I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next. I feel really bad for Amelia with everything she has gone through but she is definitely one tough lady. At first I thought I might like Michel, that was before I discovered he was pure evil. He literally has no ounce of Humanity left in him. The things he and his 'lover' Rene would do to other Humans was cruel, I would be terrified myself if I were in Amelia's shoes. I will say though, Michel has a way of getting in your mind and the things that he puts in your mind well that is far from evil. I can see why Amelia falls for him in the beginning. He has a hidden agenda though regarding Amelia which she didn't know when she first fell for him, there is more to him than what meets the eye. This is discovered as you get more into the story. John on the other hand seems more like a gentleman, well not at first. At first he seems like a psycho person that could be just as evil as Michel, but that is before you find out why he kidnaps Amelia. In the end, he is what you would call a 'knight in shinning armor.' John is there for Amelia when she needs him most, it may have taken some time for him to be there, but he eventually comes to her rescue. You will fall in love with Amelia and John and the love that they share for each other.
I really liked the time period and the description of the time period that Julie wrote about. It shows she did her research before writing this book. I felt like I was in the era with the characters.
In the end, I have chosen who I want to live, and who I want to die or rather suffer...
I hope you enjoy this story and the characters as much as I did!
I really liked the time period and the description of the time period that Julie wrote about. It shows she did her research before writing this book. I felt like I was in the era with the characters.
In the end, I have chosen who I want to live, and who I want to die or rather suffer...
I hope you enjoy this story and the characters as much as I did!
March 11, 2015
“Monsters in my world are alive and I am now very much a part of their war.”
Amelia Rimos is an alchemist, and she hopes to win the Nobel Prize for her latest invention – X280, a formula that could very well cure vampirism. Vampires are plentiful in her world and her job is to protect humans from them. When leaving work, her life is saved from an attacking vampire…by another vampire, no less. And cue Michel Gauthier – tall, dark, and seductive. Could vampires really be all that bad? Despite warnings from her sister, Amelia keeps seeing him, sometimes for real, sometimes she thinks she imagines him. He’s sweet, romantic, sexy, everything she wants in a man – or so she thinks.
Then there’s John Hawthorne – very bright, kind, and handsome, and just so happens to be a werewolf. He’s a bit…traumatizing…at first, but he soon convinces Amelia he’s a good guy. He knows of Amelia’s invention, and also knows how terribly wrong it could go if it gets in the wrong person’s hands. He claims Michel isn’t the guy he seems to be, and it doesn’t take Amelia long to learn the truth.
In a world full of top hats and corsets, mechanical gizmos and badass weaponry, vampires and werewolves, who do you trust? How do you choose who lives and who dies?
I LOVED living in this world. The steampunk genre is fascinating to me and Julie Morgan does a fantastic job of writing it. I would love to see more from these characters, maybe a series? (hint, hint) Keep writing, Julie, and I’ll keep reading!
Amelia Rimos is an alchemist, and she hopes to win the Nobel Prize for her latest invention – X280, a formula that could very well cure vampirism. Vampires are plentiful in her world and her job is to protect humans from them. When leaving work, her life is saved from an attacking vampire…by another vampire, no less. And cue Michel Gauthier – tall, dark, and seductive. Could vampires really be all that bad? Despite warnings from her sister, Amelia keeps seeing him, sometimes for real, sometimes she thinks she imagines him. He’s sweet, romantic, sexy, everything she wants in a man – or so she thinks.
Then there’s John Hawthorne – very bright, kind, and handsome, and just so happens to be a werewolf. He’s a bit…traumatizing…at first, but he soon convinces Amelia he’s a good guy. He knows of Amelia’s invention, and also knows how terribly wrong it could go if it gets in the wrong person’s hands. He claims Michel isn’t the guy he seems to be, and it doesn’t take Amelia long to learn the truth.
In a world full of top hats and corsets, mechanical gizmos and badass weaponry, vampires and werewolves, who do you trust? How do you choose who lives and who dies?
I LOVED living in this world. The steampunk genre is fascinating to me and Julie Morgan does a fantastic job of writing it. I would love to see more from these characters, maybe a series? (hint, hint) Keep writing, Julie, and I’ll keep reading!
May 14, 2015
Well... i wasn't sure what to expect from this book and to be honest i don't think i have ever read anything like it!!
It's Steam Punk, it's Vampires, it's Werewolves, it's Alchemists, with a hint of witchcraft and humans thrown in for good measure!
This story is based around Amelia the Alchemist. She is determined to find a cure for vampirism and at the beginning she is working hard and thinks she's nailed it. Then one night she meets Michel (the vampire) who is charming and intoxicating to Amelia and she starts to think that maybe vampires aren't all bad. Then she comes across John (the Werewolf) who on face value is mean and rude and determined to stop Amelia at any costs from finding the cure. I won't give spoilers, the story continues from here and is quite a ride. Amelia goes through some really tough times but boy is she strong!
The story kept me gripped and entertained all the way to the end and the sexual tension through the whole book almost had me combust!! Both Michel and John are hot but i think you will pretty easily pick your fave! There are some quite bloody and gory scenes in this book so be warned it's not all hearts and flowers, well, it's not hearts and flowers at all! But there are lots of swoon and phew moments.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book the setting and subject were pretty unique, i can't wait for book 2 coming soon!
I would recommend this book to anyone.
It's Steam Punk, it's Vampires, it's Werewolves, it's Alchemists, with a hint of witchcraft and humans thrown in for good measure!
This story is based around Amelia the Alchemist. She is determined to find a cure for vampirism and at the beginning she is working hard and thinks she's nailed it. Then one night she meets Michel (the vampire) who is charming and intoxicating to Amelia and she starts to think that maybe vampires aren't all bad. Then she comes across John (the Werewolf) who on face value is mean and rude and determined to stop Amelia at any costs from finding the cure. I won't give spoilers, the story continues from here and is quite a ride. Amelia goes through some really tough times but boy is she strong!
The story kept me gripped and entertained all the way to the end and the sexual tension through the whole book almost had me combust!! Both Michel and John are hot but i think you will pretty easily pick your fave! There are some quite bloody and gory scenes in this book so be warned it's not all hearts and flowers, well, it's not hearts and flowers at all! But there are lots of swoon and phew moments.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book the setting and subject were pretty unique, i can't wait for book 2 coming soon!
I would recommend this book to anyone.
January 30, 2015
Julie does it again!
This is my 1st Steampunk (I hope that's right) book and I absolutely loved it. We have the South, check. We have beautiful Victorian ladies and handsome debonair men, check. Add in some pretty sweet inventions, got them too. One bold and beautiful Alchemist, she's in there too. Amelia was no wallflower Then, give us vampires and werewolves, oh my. I have to admit I thought I was going to be team Michel, but you just have to love them big ole were's like John! The dynamics between all these characters was dynamic and animated. I couldn't get enough of it. This book is one of the reasons why Julie Morgan is one of my all time favorite authors!
This is my 1st Steampunk (I hope that's right) book and I absolutely loved it. We have the South, check. We have beautiful Victorian ladies and handsome debonair men, check. Add in some pretty sweet inventions, got them too. One bold and beautiful Alchemist, she's in there too. Amelia was no wallflower Then, give us vampires and werewolves, oh my. I have to admit I thought I was going to be team Michel, but you just have to love them big ole were's like John! The dynamics between all these characters was dynamic and animated. I couldn't get enough of it. This book is one of the reasons why Julie Morgan is one of my all time favorite authors!
October 31, 2022
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
Fantastic audio performance!
This is the first book I’ve read by Julie Morgan and the first I’ve listened to performed by Fiona Thraille. The story was a bit on the violent side for me but I loved listening to Fiona Thraille’s performance of the story. Her voice kept me engaged and listening intently even when some of the things happening were a bit hard to listen to. By the end of the story everything worked out OK and I’m not at all sorry that I listened to this book.
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
Fantastic audio performance!
This is the first book I’ve read by Julie Morgan and the first I’ve listened to performed by Fiona Thraille. The story was a bit on the violent side for me but I loved listening to Fiona Thraille’s performance of the story. Her voice kept me engaged and listening intently even when some of the things happening were a bit hard to listen to. By the end of the story everything worked out OK and I’m not at all sorry that I listened to this book.
January 23, 2015
This book was good. The idea was interesting, the characters were interesting, the plot flow was interesting. It is a steampunk setting so I understand the more formal way of speaking, with sort of a Victorian feel. But the liberal non-use of contractions really pulled me out of story at times, unfortunately. The dialog became almost unwieldy. Overall it was just...good. I think it could have had a little more spice across the board.
December 17, 2015
Deadly Alchemy by Julie Morgan is a mixed genre ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Alchemist Amelia Rimos is a genius whose discovery of a cure for vampirism is wanted by both the vampires and werewolves forcing her into a ride through hell which has her finding love along the way. Despite the number of tears she sheds Amelia is no fragile flower. She has reasons for the tears and backbone enough to keep on going. This is a great read.
January 22, 2015
Amazing
This was a well written story and once you started you can't stop. The characters were easy to connect with and the more I read the more I was having my favorites. This is a must read if you love paranormal, a good love triangle and a heroine who is tough with all she deals with. Can't wait for the next book
This was a well written story and once you started you can't stop. The characters were easy to connect with and the more I read the more I was having my favorites. This is a must read if you love paranormal, a good love triangle and a heroine who is tough with all she deals with. Can't wait for the next book
June 11, 2015
Vampires, werewolves, and humans, Oh My
In a formal world mimicking the Victorian age, villains and humans coexist until a cure for vampirism cause all kinds of problems for everyone. This sexy werewolf/vamp read will be sure to appeal to those who enjoy things that go bump in the night.
In a formal world mimicking the Victorian age, villains and humans coexist until a cure for vampirism cause all kinds of problems for everyone. This sexy werewolf/vamp read will be sure to appeal to those who enjoy things that go bump in the night.
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March 16, 2024
Does she even care her driver was killed? I had to go back and read the chapter over to see if I missed some small tidbit before she agreed to allow the strange vampire drive her home? No thinking about calling any authorities, or going back inside her office to tell someone. She's just going to leave her driver's dead body cooling in the streets? She carries a vial of sunlight as protection against vampires. She feels threatened by vampires, creates a cure against the creation of them, but she agrees to go with out even a thought that maybe he might have killed her driver? He's antagonistic and she's offended by him. He's hardly done anything to make her feel safe. Again, why doesn't she just go back inside or have thought to even look to see that her driver is dead and can't be helped. Can vampires glamour or control the mind in this book?
I've only read the first chapter and part of the second. I have a feeling this will end up in do not finish. The last sentence of the chapter when she arrives home may seal this book's fate. "I grin and unlock my door, excited to fill my sister Rachel, on on tonight's events, adventure, and Michel." Good to know the Amelia has no empathy for her dead driver. The sister seems equally disdainful of the dead man. I keep feeling I'm missing a portion of the book? Even the sister is more worried about meeting a hot vampire and Amelia's possible attack than the actual attack on the driver.
When she finally calls the police to report the body she protects a vampire she just met by calling the murder an animal attack. If she didn't see the body how could she describe how he died? There could have been fang marks in his neck. I keep wondering the book was bugged and not all the text was included and that Amelia isn't so cold hearted and clueless.
I've only read the first chapter and part of the second. I have a feeling this will end up in do not finish. The last sentence of the chapter when she arrives home may seal this book's fate. "I grin and unlock my door, excited to fill my sister Rachel, on on tonight's events, adventure, and Michel." Good to know the Amelia has no empathy for her dead driver. The sister seems equally disdainful of the dead man. I keep feeling I'm missing a portion of the book? Even the sister is more worried about meeting a hot vampire and Amelia's possible attack than the actual attack on the driver.
When she finally calls the police to report the body she protects a vampire she just met by calling the murder an animal attack. If she didn't see the body how could she describe how he died? There could have been fang marks in his neck. I keep wondering the book was bugged and not all the text was included and that Amelia isn't so cold hearted and clueless.
November 20, 2016
The Audible version of this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review. Not being a big fan of steampunk, vampires or werewolves, I wasn't sure how I would feel about this book. But I have read other books by Julie Morgan and thought I would give it a try. I am so glad I did! Started listening late afternoon and at 1:30 in the morning I couldn't stop! Listened straight thru to the end and loved it!
When I first started listing to this audio version of the book, I wasn't fond of the narrator, but soon I realized that Fiona Thraille's voice kept me in the period. The actions and vocabulary of the characters sometimes appeared more modern (yes, this is steampunk), but that appears to be the intent of the author and when read by this narrator I was able to stay submerged in the setting. I also want to add that Julie Morgan's description of the world to which this book was created was brilliant. The visualization was intense.
When asked if there was a moment in the book that particularly moved me, I would have to say "Several moments in different ways." I loved the "dream" scenes but wanted to scream when the dream would end and the realization sank in that it didn't really happen (breathing heavily). But I loved it! Then there was the blood and gore and bathtub... Ugh! I won't say more on that. You need to read it to get the full impact.
When I first started listing to this audio version of the book, I wasn't fond of the narrator, but soon I realized that Fiona Thraille's voice kept me in the period. The actions and vocabulary of the characters sometimes appeared more modern (yes, this is steampunk), but that appears to be the intent of the author and when read by this narrator I was able to stay submerged in the setting. I also want to add that Julie Morgan's description of the world to which this book was created was brilliant. The visualization was intense.
When asked if there was a moment in the book that particularly moved me, I would have to say "Several moments in different ways." I loved the "dream" scenes but wanted to scream when the dream would end and the realization sank in that it didn't really happen (breathing heavily). But I loved it! Then there was the blood and gore and bathtub... Ugh! I won't say more on that. You need to read it to get the full impact.
March 29, 2022
Deadly Alchemy
Vampires and shifters a plenty in this book, and I must say this author has some interesting views on both subjects. Vampires were the enemies in this book - the evil ones, the ones without conscious - the ones that just kill for pleasure and blood lust. The werewolves, when changed, became more of a hairy man with a wolves head and claws, then an actual wolf that we’ve grown accustomed to reading about.
The main characters in this storyline are Amelia - an alchemist by trade, John - a werewolf, and Mikel - a vampire. When first introduced to the storyline, Mikel is charming and pleasant and seems to be on Amelia’s side - her savior. John is angry and gruff, seeming to be the one not to be trusted. But we soon find out that John is the hero in this storyline. Pretty much everyone Amelia was “friends” with in the beginning of the book turn on her, leaving her to try to figure out who she can trust & who she can’t.
While I enjoyed the book, I didn’t like how some of the chapters were written in third person instead of first person, which was how most of the book was written. To waver back and forth between the two sends a confusing message to the reader. So alas, I give this book only a 4 ⭐️ rating.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vampires and shifters a plenty in this book, and I must say this author has some interesting views on both subjects. Vampires were the enemies in this book - the evil ones, the ones without conscious - the ones that just kill for pleasure and blood lust. The werewolves, when changed, became more of a hairy man with a wolves head and claws, then an actual wolf that we’ve grown accustomed to reading about.
The main characters in this storyline are Amelia - an alchemist by trade, John - a werewolf, and Mikel - a vampire. When first introduced to the storyline, Mikel is charming and pleasant and seems to be on Amelia’s side - her savior. John is angry and gruff, seeming to be the one not to be trusted. But we soon find out that John is the hero in this storyline. Pretty much everyone Amelia was “friends” with in the beginning of the book turn on her, leaving her to try to figure out who she can trust & who she can’t.
While I enjoyed the book, I didn’t like how some of the chapters were written in third person instead of first person, which was how most of the book was written. To waver back and forth between the two sends a confusing message to the reader. So alas, I give this book only a 4 ⭐️ rating.
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August 16, 2017
I met Julie this past June at the Space Coast Book Lovers Convention. She was so nice to talk to. When I found her steampunk series, I had to read it. I've had it on my TBR since June. When it came up I read it in one day- it was that good. The original concept of a scientist finding a cure for vampirism was unlike anything I've read before. I liked the main character a lot. I related to her independence and spunk. I bet there were more women like her during the Victorian period than we realize. The action was fast paced and the romance was nice and steamy. I do wish there were more steampunkish details to the story, though. Now I've put book two on my TBR and rumor has it another one is coming out next year.
April 7, 2022
When I read a book and the date or place are not specified, I have to figure out clues to where and when. With this one I was completely lost. I'll admit I don't understand steampunk and nobody has ever been able to explain it. But when you have a story of people riding in carriages and using candles and lantern light, it just doesn't make sense that she can call her sister. The heroine is smart enough to develop a serum for vampirism but is instantly attracted to a vampire and when kidnapped by werewolves becomes instantly attracted to the Alpha? The whole thing became a snooze fest after John turned down her drunken advances and I just couldn't go on any longer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2025
Very boring prose, not a lot of variety of sentence structure. The steampunk “gears, corsets and monocle” aesthetic is very strangely incorporated into the scenery. The dialogue is dull. I tapped out at 28% when FMC is presented with some very flimsy “evidence” that two people she knows are “conspiring” against her; both the people presenting this evidence and the FMC’s reaction to it are very overwrought for what it is, and I could just tell already that the “conspirators” are going to have some kind of explanation about why they were not the bad guys, but the FMC isn’t going to listen because “you’re dangerous” and “I’ve seen the proof” and yeah… miscommunication plot. Boooooooring!
February 27, 2019
We read this book for episode 26 of our podcast. Amelia is an alchemist looking for the cure to vampires. She doesn't realize this quest will put her in the crosshairs of two very different groups. Who can she trust? Michel, the dark stranger who invades her dreams or John, her erstwhile kidnapper? Join us as we explore our sexy dreams and steampunk, Victorian clothing kink. For more of our thoughts, listen to episode 26 of Shhh We’re Reading Dirty Books found on any podcast platform!
July 26, 2022
Good Story
It took me a little while to get into the book. The wording felt a little stiff, and I was not enamored with the heroine to begin with. There were several areas that bothered me, for example, She seemed to show little emotion when her driver was murdered. I kept at it and I did get very interested in the story. I think about the time she was kidnapped, it got more interesting, faster paced, and the wording flowed better. The story itself was quite good.
It took me a little while to get into the book. The wording felt a little stiff, and I was not enamored with the heroine to begin with. There were several areas that bothered me, for example, She seemed to show little emotion when her driver was murdered. I kept at it and I did get very interested in the story. I think about the time she was kidnapped, it got more interesting, faster paced, and the wording flowed better. The story itself was quite good.
March 2, 2017
Why did this get so many 5 star reviews? I give this 2.5 stars. I liked how it started, I liked the action, didn't like the direction it took. I hate weak women. What's more disappointing than a weak woman is one that (I thought) was strong.
Amelia Rimos is an alchemist who has created a cure for vampirism and she she hopes it will win her a Nobel prize. A vampire named Michel saves her from a vampire (or an animal?) attack and she's smitten. Then she's kidnapped by werewolves who claim Michel is not what he seems. Well that might be true, but the truth is, Michel is the ONLY character in this book I liked at all! Yes really.
Once Amelia is kidnapped by John (alpha wolf) and his pack, she immediately is smitten with him. She lets him tease her about drinking and sex. She lets him grab her wrist and abuse her when she went to smack him (which he fully deserved btw), she lets him and his pack mates boss her around, and she CONSTANTLY lowers her eyes in submission. Jesus christ - woman up!
Michel wants Amelia's cure to turn everyone into vampires.
Sure Michel is pretty evil, but if you paid attention to WHY he acts this way there's a little bit of empathy there (monsters are made, not born).
I hated John - HATED him! All he does is growl, bark orders, and treat Amelia like his possession. And that whole "MINE" thing has always been - and always will be - sexist. People aren't property. Not only does she fall for this caveman, but the last 20% of the book is just stupid sex...yawn.
I SO wanted Michel to win. #1 I hate werewolves. I always have. Even with Underworld I've always been Team Vampire.
IMPORTANT historical note: Sexist engagement rings (and yes they are if you think about it) didn't exist until the 1920s when the mines in were found (be DeBeers, and when they started marketing them everyone else who mined did,too. Thus, the social indoctrination of making women chase them began...). Since this is supposed to take place in the Victorian era, getting down on one knee and pulling out a ring was not yet "a thing".
I'm curious to know what happens with Michel, but I'm really not sure if I want to read the other books or not. If someone tells me John dies at the end (that's my attempt at a joke) then I'll read them. Because seriously, I REALLY wanted Michel to turn Amelia and kill John. I'm hoping it happens.
BTW, this is NOT steampunk. There's a mention of goggles. That's it. Steampunk is more than adding a magnifying glass to your goggles and calling it a day.
Amelia Rimos is an alchemist who has created a cure for vampirism and she she hopes it will win her a Nobel prize. A vampire named Michel saves her from a vampire (or an animal?) attack and she's smitten. Then she's kidnapped by werewolves who claim Michel is not what he seems. Well that might be true, but the truth is, Michel is the ONLY character in this book I liked at all! Yes really.
Once Amelia is kidnapped by John (alpha wolf) and his pack, she immediately is smitten with him. She lets him tease her about drinking and sex. She lets him grab her wrist and abuse her when she went to smack him (which he fully deserved btw), she lets him and his pack mates boss her around, and she CONSTANTLY lowers her eyes in submission. Jesus christ - woman up!
Michel wants Amelia's cure to turn everyone into vampires.
Sure Michel is pretty evil, but if you paid attention to WHY he acts this way there's a little bit of empathy there (monsters are made, not born).
I hated John - HATED him! All he does is growl, bark orders, and treat Amelia like his possession. And that whole "MINE" thing has always been - and always will be - sexist. People aren't property. Not only does she fall for this caveman, but the last 20% of the book is just stupid sex...yawn.
I SO wanted Michel to win. #1 I hate werewolves. I always have. Even with Underworld I've always been Team Vampire.
IMPORTANT historical note: Sexist engagement rings (and yes they are if you think about it) didn't exist until the 1920s when the mines in were found (be DeBeers, and when they started marketing them everyone else who mined did,too. Thus, the social indoctrination of making women chase them began...). Since this is supposed to take place in the Victorian era, getting down on one knee and pulling out a ring was not yet "a thing".
I'm curious to know what happens with Michel, but I'm really not sure if I want to read the other books or not. If someone tells me John dies at the end (that's my attempt at a joke) then I'll read them. Because seriously, I REALLY wanted Michel to turn Amelia and kill John. I'm hoping it happens.
BTW, this is NOT steampunk. There's a mention of goggles. That's it. Steampunk is more than adding a magnifying glass to your goggles and calling it a day.
November 17, 2020
A good story.
I enjoyed this book. Amelia is am alchemist working on a cure for vampirism. She Hope's to win a Nobel Prize for her work. Her work brings unwanted attention from the vampires. She finds allies in werewolves. There are surprises in the plot. One thing I did not like was when Amelia did something really stupid. I will read the next book.
I enjoyed this book. Amelia is am alchemist working on a cure for vampirism. She Hope's to win a Nobel Prize for her work. Her work brings unwanted attention from the vampires. She finds allies in werewolves. There are surprises in the plot. One thing I did not like was when Amelia did something really stupid. I will read the next book.
November 23, 2022
I liked Deadly Alchemy. Amelia's story starts out where she discovers a cure for the undead. She meets a Vampire, her life starts coming unglued. Half way through the story it veers off in another direction I didn't see coming. The second half is filled with cruel, horrible things. I wasn't crazy about the ending.
July 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, from the 1st page to the last! It was a good paced book, with a little bit of spice. The story line kept you engaged with the characters and there was not one spot in the book that was slow. This is the 1st time I've read a book by this author and it certainly won't be the last!
May 31, 2025
Set in Savannah and narrated by Amelia Rimos. As an Alchemist, Amelia is working on a cure for Vampirism.
When one of her formulas is successful, Amelia is approached by Michel Gauthier.
Then Amelia is kidnapped by John Hawthorne, the leader of a werewolf pack.
Originally published in 2015 , there is something of a Twilight influence.
When one of her formulas is successful, Amelia is approached by Michel Gauthier.
Then Amelia is kidnapped by John Hawthorne, the leader of a werewolf pack.
Originally published in 2015 , there is something of a Twilight influence.
November 8, 2022
steampunk werewolves
Interesting storyline, with a cure for vampirism involved, it is set in an alternate timeline with the heroine wearing bustles and corsets. A bit violent in places, but good reading
Interesting storyline, with a cure for vampirism involved, it is set in an alternate timeline with the heroine wearing bustles and corsets. A bit violent in places, but good reading
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